Business Details
17 Years
experience
Expert Music Lessons in Toronto
Founded in 2009, Red House Music Academy has established itself as a premier destination for music education in Toronto. Our academy combines experienced instruction with modern teaching methods, offering students of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to learn from professional musicians. With a focus on practical application, we provide private lessons, group programs, and performance opportunities in a state-of-the-art facility. Our faculty brings decades of industry experience, having performed with renowned artists and taught students who have gone on to successful musical careers. We maintain rigorous standards for curriculum development while fostering a creative, student-centered environment.Our commitment to quality education is reflected in our structured semester system, comprehensive lesson plans, and emphasis on musical growth. Through our rock band program and recording studio access, students gain real-world experience in collaborative music creation. We continually invest in facility upgrades and teacher training to maintain our position at the forefront of music education. Our track record of satisfied students and industry recognition solidifies our reputation as a trusted name in musical instruction. We remain dedicated to evolving with the changing landscape of music education while preserving our core philosophy of accessible, high-quality learning.
Services
Guitar Lessons
Piano Lessons
Voice Training
Drum Instruction
Ukulele Lessons
Bass Guitar
Rock Band Program
Songwriting
Recording Studio
Music Theory
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We offer instruction from performing musicians with decades of industry experience
- Our rock band program provides unique collaborative music-making opportunities
- We maintain a state-of-the-art facility with professional recording studio access
- Our structured semester system ensures consistent musical progress
- We provide comprehensive instruction covering 8+ instruments and vocal training
What people say
Teachers are great
Learned a lot
Enjoyable lessons
Good experience
Well run school
Services
Guitar Lessons
Our guitar lessons cover acoustic and electric guitar techniques for all skill levels. Students learn chord progressions, fingerpicking patterns, and song interpretation while developing proper technique. Instructors tailor lessons to individual musical preferences, from rock to classical styles.
Rock Band Program
This unique program lets students form bands and rehearse with peers under instructor guidance. Participants learn ensemble playing, stage presence, and song arrangement while preparing for live performances at local venues like the Dakota Tavern.
Voice Training
Voice lessons focus on breath control, pitch accuracy, and vocal range expansion across multiple genres. Students receive personalized instruction in proper vocal technique while preparing repertoire from pop, rock, and musical theatre traditions.
Recording Studio
Studio sessions teach songwriting, recording techniques, and digital audio workstation operation. Students can record original compositions using professional equipment, learning the complete process from composition to final mix production.
Piano Lessons
Piano instruction covers sight-reading, finger exercises, and repertoire development for classical and contemporary styles. Lessons emphasize proper hand position and musical interpretation, with options for Royal Conservatory exam preparation.
People
Michael McKenzie
Owner and Founder
Professional guitarist with decades of touring experience, having performed with The Goo Goo Dolls and The Tragically Hip. Founded Red House Music Academy in 2009 to combine teaching with modern music education approaches.
Al Cross
Drum Instructor
Renowned drummer with over 40 years teaching experience. Studied under Art Blakey and Pierre Beluse, bringing jazz expertise and a relaxed teaching style to Red House's percussion program.
Devin Herbert
Voice and Piano Instructor
Classically trained vocalist with a Master's in Musical Theatre Performance. Combines theatre experience with music instruction, teaching students of all ages to develop vocal technique and performance skills.
Deanna Mann
Multi-Instrumentalist
Graduated from St Francis Xavier University for jazz studies and Randolph College for Performing Arts. Teaches piano, voice, and various instruments while sharing expertise in both recording and live performance techniques.
Nolan Jakupovski
Guitar and Bass Instructor
Certified jazz performer with technical expertise in guitar and bass. Focuses on developing students' musicianship through modern teaching methods and practical application of musical theory concepts.
Questions
What instruments can I learn at Red House Music Academy?
We offer instruction in guitar (acoustic/electric), piano, voice, drums, bass, ukulele, and saxophone, with specialized programs for songwriting and recording.
Do you offer lessons for adult students?
Yes, we welcome adult learners of all skill levels with instructors experienced in teaching mature students' unique needs and learning styles.
What is your lesson cancellation policy?
We allow one cancellation per semester with 24-hour notice. Same-day cancellations forfeit the lesson, and missed lessons depend on teacher availability for rescheduling.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes, we provide regular performance chances including recitals, local venue shows at the Dakota Tavern, and our rock band program's rehearsal performances.
How are lessons structured at your academy?
Lessons use semester-based packages (12 weeks) with weekly 30-minute sessions following the TDSB calendar, focusing on structured skill development and personalized musical goals.
Do you offer recording studio access for students?
Yes, our on-site recording studio is available for students to develop production skills, record original compositions, and learn music technology applications.
Reviews (5)
M. Piotrowski
Jul 24, 2020
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Piano in person or singing over Zoom:
Both is done well, the kids enjoy it and make progress every week.
Personal, very laid back place where it's easy to feel comfortable. Great and very encouraging teachers! Lots of reading material while you wait for your little ones.
P.S Green P Parking across the street.
Both is done well, the kids enjoy it and make progress every week.
Personal, very laid back place where it's easy to feel comfortable. Great and very encouraging teachers! Lots of reading material while you wait for your little ones.
P.S Green P Parking across the street.
Morgan Ross
Jun 02, 2020
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They do great work with the kids, care and know what they're doing. A good operation they're running over there.
Richard Carmichael
Jun 03, 2019
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This is the best music school for kids (even bit, grown up ones) in the city. Mike is an awesome guy and all of his teachers are very good at teaching musiceven to kids with ADHD and focus issues. I have had all three of my kids take lessons here and I would highly recommend it. All of them had a chance to join a band and create their own music, as well as perform in front of a love audience at a local music venue. It brings me so much joy to see them growing up in such a healthy, supportive musical environment where they can tap into and become their creative and musical self. I can't say
Mayank Dhyani
Dec 11, 2017
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I have been learning guitar with Michael and it has been an exceptional experience. Having picked up the instrument for the first time at 30 years of age was always going to be a challenge but working through the basics with Michael has been a lot of fun! I have recommended this place to many friends and will recommend it for everyone - age no bar!
Richard Carmichael
Oct 04, 2013
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My kids and I have been coming here for a year or so. The teachers are great and the school is well run. We all have a great time and have learned a lot about music and how to play guitar, piano etc. We look forward to our lessons every week. I always wanted to play but never had the time. The truth is, you have to make it a priority or you will never do it. This is a great place to start. I have learned so much and now I can actually play a guitar. Move over Beethoven.
